Op-Ed: Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill Delivers Freedom to UrbanAmerica—Now Let’s Build on It

The Frederick Douglass Freedom Alliance was created to defend what Frederick Douglass called
the “divine right of liberty.” Today, with the Big Beautiful Bill signed into law, that divine right
has been honored in a way we haven’t seen in decades—especially for the communities that need
it most.

This law is not just a political win—it’s a cultural correction. It’s a declaration that forgotten
communities will be forgotten no more. We offered our full-throated endorsement when the bill
was introduced, and now that it’s law, we are doubling down. Because this isn’t the finish line—
it’s the starting gun.

Urban Communities Need More Than Celebration—They Need Implementation

Too many laws get passed with fanfare, only to fade once the headlines shift. Not this time. The
Big Beautiful Bill brings real opportunity for urban America—opportunity that must be activated,
not just applauded.

This law brings relief, investment, and empowerment. Now it’s time to turn that potential into
real change.

Tax Relief That Starts Now

Here’s what they’re not telling you in the mainstream media: this law is putting money back in
the hands of people who’ve earned it. Starting now, tips and overtime pay will no longer be
taxed by the federal government. That’s life-changing for the thousands of service workers
who’ve been taxed twice—once by inflation and again by Washington.

And for our seniors, the end of federal taxes on Social Security brings peace of mind and
financial breathing room. These aren’t talking points. These are tangible wins.

Economic Freedom That Belongs to the People

The law’s entrepreneurship zones are a direct answer to decades of redlining, overregulation, and
disinvestment. For the first time in a long time, we’re seeing policy that opens doors for Black-
owned businesses, faith-based developers, and community entrepreneurs—without requiring
them to beg for permission.

This isn’t trickle-down talk. It’s bottom-up empowerment.

Education Freedom Is Still Civil Rights 2.0

This law makes a powerful move toward breaking the cycle of failing schools by expanding
school choice. Every child—whether in Baltimore, Detroit, or Newark—deserves the right to a
quality education. This bill puts that power where it belongs: in the hands of parents. And when
parents are free to choose, children are free to thrive.

A Safer Future That Doesn’t Sacrifice Our Voice

President Trump’s legislation includes common-sense policing reforms that support good
officers while promoting accountability. For our communities, that means safer streets and
stronger relationships between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they serve.

What the President Should Do Next

Now that this law is in place, President Trump has the opportunity to build on this momentum.
Here’s where we believe the next bold steps must be taken:

1. Establish a White House Urban Policy Council

Create a permanent advisory body made up of faith leaders, small business owners, and community advocates—not lobbyists. This group would ensure the implementation of the bill stays focused on the people it was written to serve.

2. Reform Federal Contracting for Minority Entrepreneurs

Streamline access to federal contracts for minority-owned businesses. Too many are locked out by red tape and insider systems. Let’s base awards on performance, not connections.

3. Launch a “Freedom to Work” Initiative

Pair the economic vision of this bill with a skills-based workforce program that offers certifications and pathways into trades, tech, and small business ownership—especially in underserved areas.

This Is a Freedom Law—Make No Mistake About It

This legislation is already shifting the ground beneath our feet. But if we want it to stick, we
must do more than celebrate. We must organize, inform, and implement.

At the Frederick Douglass Freedom Alliance, we are mobilizing our chapters across the country
to make sure people know what’s now available to them—and how to use it. Because while the
mainstream media downplays this moment, we see it for what it is:

This is a freedom law. And freedom is the foundation of everything worth building.

To the President: thank you for listening, leading, and delivering. Now let’s finish the job.

To the American people: this is your win. Let’s get to work.